Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Bertrand.
Emma, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started with a major in communication and public relations and a minor in marketing to give me the background knowledge in communication I knew I’d need no matter where my career took me. I also tried to take advantage of all the classes available to explore my interests in photography, graphic design, fine art, music, and ceramics. I wasn’t sure exactly which direction I wanted my career to head but I knew I wanted to be in LA – so that’s where my search started. I ended up deciding to move without a job and got one while I was on the way. Since the move, I have worn many hats – working in digital marketing, business development, social media strategy, public relations, and eventually graphic design and photographer. Graphic design – I was lucky enough to work in a company that was able to shift to emphasize my skills and allow me to transform into a graphic designer with no prior training.
While working, I got a graphic design certification from CalArts and have been growing my capabilities with online tutorials, courses, and trial and error. Photography – I took an interest in photography in high school but it wasn’t until I moved to LA that I started shooting portraits for my friends. Portraiture became my favorite form of photography and it even evolved into shooting concert photography. I realized I wanted to be a concert photographer when I was at a LEON concert – wishing I could capture the way live music feels in a tangible way. From there, I figured it out and have shot tons of bands in venues around LA. I also sell prints every Sunday at the Melrose trading post in Fairfax.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My path hasn’t been smooth and it hasn’t been straight. I’ve taken a lot of turns in my career – searching for my one true passion – until I realized I didn’t have just one passion and there’s no one way for me to make art or be successful in it. I think I’m lucky to have been in positions where I could grow from one thing to another, learning what brings me joy and what feels more like a chore. I’m still learning and growing and I imagine my career will continue on a windy road forever.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a graphic designer and photographer. A lot of my work is for nonprofits, which I find incredibly fulfilling. The things I create – images, logos, brands, websites – are powerful tools and I wanted them to be used for good, to make the world a better place. The goal is for my work to leave a positive impact and the people I work with are doing incredible things, which makes working all the more enriching.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Reach out! I specialize in finding the best way to bring a story to life visually – whether that be through a new logo and brand, upgraded website, or photoshoot for images that reflect you/your brand/your story. I’d love to chat and discuss possibilities.
Contact Info:
- Website: emmabertrand.com
- Instagram: @emmabertrand.jpg
Image Credits:
Photo of me was taken by Mathew Tucciarone All other photos by Emma Bertrand
